Delicious Chicken Tamales Recipe: A Flavorful Homemade Tradition

Tamales are a beloved Mexican dish that brings together family and friends for a delicious culinary experience. This recipe for chicken tamales offers a simple and delightful way to make this traditional dish at home, perfect for gatherings or a comforting meal. With a few key ingredients and some love, you can create these flavourful tamales that are sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

– 2 cups masa harina
– 1 cup chicken stock
– 1/2 cup vegetable oil
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
– 1 cup red enchilada sauce
– 1 cup corn kernels
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup sliced black olives
– 1 cup shredded cheese
– Corn husks, soaked in warm water

Making the Chicken Filling:

1. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the red enchilada sauce until well combined.
2. Add in the corn kernels, chopped cilantro, black olives, and shredded cheese. Mix thoroughly and set aside.

Preparing the Tamale Dough:

1. In a separate bowl, combine the masa harina, baking powder, and salt.
2. Gradually add in the chicken stock and vegetable oil, mixing until a smooth dough forms. The consistency should be similar to peanut butter.

Assembling the Tamales:

1. Take a soaked corn husk and spread a thin layer of the tamale dough onto the smooth side of the husk, leaving space around the edges.
2. Place a spoonful of the chicken filling in the center of the dough.
3. Fold the sides of the husk towards the center, enclosing the filling, then fold the bottom of the husk up.
4. Secure the tamale by tying it with a strip of corn husk. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.

Steaming the Tamales:

1. Arrange the tamales vertically in a steamer pot with the open end facing up.
2. Fill the bottom of the pot with water, making sure it does not touch the tamales.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the tamales for 1.5 to 2 hours, adding more water as needed.

Serving and Enjoying:

1. Once the tamales are cooked, carefully remove them from the steamer and let them rest for a few minutes.
2. Unwrap the tamales and serve them warm with additional enchilada sauce, cheese, and cilantro.

There you have it – a delicious and effortless recipe for chicken tamales that will impress your family and friends. Embrace the tradition of making homemade tamales with this flavourful dish that is sure to become a favourite in your household. Gather your loved ones and enjoy the satisfaction of creating and indulging in this delightful Mexican treat.